Essi Sairanen

My research framework is Contextual Behavioral Science (CBS), and I am especially interested in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Relational Frame Theory (RFT) as well as process based approach in behavioral change. I am also interested in web- and mobile-based interventions.

My PhD thesis entitled ‘Behavioral and Psychological Flexibility in Eating Regulation among Overweight Adults’ focused on eating regulation in weight management and lifestyle changes as well as behavioral change processes. I investigated Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) -related behavior regulation processes, such as psychological flexibility and mindfulness skills. I also investigated group- and smartphone ACT-interventions in supporting weight management and eating regulation.

I have worked in several projects investigating ACT interventions. Currently, I am investigating a web-based ACT intervention for supporting parents of children having chronic conditions. My focus is especially on mechanism producing change in wellbeing.

In addition, I am working in a project developing and examining smartphone-based methods to investigate and affect wellbeing. I am especially interested in value-related behaviors and their affects to eating behavior.

• Since 2016, Postdoc researcher in Karlstad University, Department of psychology.

• 2016, PhD in Psychology, University of Jyväskylä, Department of psychology. Supervisor: Prof. Raimo Lappalainen

• 2011, Master of psychology, University of Jyväskylä